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Le Havre is a port town on the Norman coast of France, and for many travelers making their way to the continent by ferry, the city is also a port of entry. Bombed flat during World War II, modern Le Havre is something of a monument to post-war architecture and city planning, so that it is sometimes referred to as "the Brasilia of France" for its 1950s and 1960s styles of modernism. This city is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors who wish to explore the Le Havre's particular sense of design have a number of options for navigating the city.

Step 1

Walk to explore the old town. The main square in Le Havre, Place de l'Hotel de Ville, is only about half a mile from the waterfront. Havre's train station and port are all in the same general area. The city's center is compact and walkable.

Step 2

Take a bus to cover longer distances around town. Bus Oceane (bus-oceane.com) has 14 lines in Le Havre. This is the only source of public transportation.

Step 3

Rent a car and drive around Le Havre. Europcar (europcar.com) has a branch at the train station, and other major chains and local rental car agencies have offices scattered around the city. Americans need only a valid U.S. driver's license when visiting in France for less than 90 days.

Step 4

Hire a taxi on the streets. They also can be found at the train station, port or a shopping center. Any of these places offers a taxi cab stand.